This series provides readers the opportunity to learn about the unique insights and experiences of the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) Board of Directors and their personal connection to the San Antonio River in hopes of inspiring stewardship of area creeks and rivers.
What have been your goals and top priorities as a River Authority board member in 2025?
As a River Authority board member in 2025, my key priorities include providing constructive input to guide the General Manager’s responsibilities and advancing the agency’s strategic goals. A significant part of my role involves touring recently acquired land and laboratory facilities to evaluate their benefits and opportunities for the organization. Additionally, I advocate for increased investment in public parks and flood prevention measures to enhance community well-being and resilience, ultimately improving the quality of life for our residents.
River Authority staff plant native vegetation at the River Authority’s Trueheart Ranch Nature Park.
Are there any insights you would like to share in your experience as a board member?
Since the start of my tenure on the Board, I have consistently been impressed by the positive reputation that the River Authority has created throughout the four counties, Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad. The depth of expertise within the team offers invaluable technical insights that significantly bolster its partnerships in the communities. Furthermore, its strong financial practices foster trust and confidence among stakeholders, enhancing the agency’s overall reputation and reliability in the industry.
Board members Derek Gaudlitz (left) and Dominic Carvajal (right) with Race the River Series—SASPAMCO race winners.
What San Antonio River discovery would you like to highlight in Wilson County?
John William Helton- San Antonio River Nature Park (Helton Nature Park) and Jackson Nature Park serve as wonderful natural escapes for residents of Wilson County. In Floresville, Helton Nature Park spans 98 acres, offering an excellent destination for outdoor recreation enthusiasts, nature lovers, and athletes. Guests can engage in a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, paddling, and camping across different areas of the park. Additionally, amenities such as a basketball court, a playground, restrooms, and a spacious 5,000-square-foot pavilion provide fantastic options for family gatherings and celebrations. Reservations for the basketball court and pavilion can be made up to one year in advance.
Helton Nature Park
In Stockdale, Jackson Nature Park, encompassing 50 acres, is owned by Wilson County and expertly managed by the River Authority. This park invites families to enjoy a day filled with hiking, nature exploration, birdwatching, and picnicking.
San Antonio River in Wilson County. Photo Credit: Victoria Mottler—River Clicks Photo Contest.
As you explore these parks this summer, please remember to practice trail safety. The River Authority is dedicated to ensuring that our creeks and rivers remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone, and your cooperation is invaluable in achieving this mission. For the latest updates on the conditions of all our agency’s maintained parks and trails, please check here.
Wilson County Event Highlights
The River Authority has a packed event schedule for the end of summer at Helton Nature Park. Be sure to subscribe to our blog newsletter and follow our events calendar to be up to date with the latest events. Click on the pictures below for more information about each upcoming event.
Mr. Carvajal was an attorney for 12 years with the Texas Attorney General office before going into private practice. Carvajal Law Firm, PC opened its doors in 2006. Since then, the practice has moved in the direction of specializing in Real Estate, Probate and Last Will and Testaments. For approximately 25 years Mr. Carvajal has provided legal counsel for businesses and individuals in a variety of situations including multi-party real estate transactions, probating of loved one’s estates, Last Will & Testaments, medical and financial Power of Attorney’s and corporation formation amongst many other areas of law. He started his career in Civil and Family Law working in The State of Texas and is now in private practice specializing in Real Estate and Business Law. In 2011 he became a co-owner and title examiner of Wilson County Abstract Company. Mr. Carvajal has been a River Authority Board member since 2021, and his current term expires in 2027.
